Abstract: A system and method for searching for data in disparate file systems and returning a merged list of search results. The system includes an interface for receiving a search request; a mechanism for issuing the search request in a first request format to a first search system and for receiving a first list of search results in a first format; a mechanism for issuing the search request in a second request format to a second search system, and for receiving a second list of search results in a second format, wherein the first list is received in a disparate format than the second list; and a mechanism for merging the first list and the second list into a common format.

Abstract: A detachable pedal assembly including an axle assembly and a binding assembly with an automatic release mechanism is disclosed. The axle assembly includes a thrust bearing and threads to engage the crank. The binding assembly includes a pedal and clasp that detachably receives and locks the thrust bearing of the axle assembly in operational engagement. When a predetermined force is applied the binding assembly automatically releases from the axle assembly to permit the cyclist to dismount or avoid injury in an accident. Furthermore, the position of the release mechanism to the side of the binding assembly permits the binding assembly to be offset from the axle axis, thereby improving increased riding efficiency, lower aerodynamic drag, and increased turning clearance.

Abstract: A composite material for use as a skateboard deck or other sports board. The composite skateboard deck of the preferred embodiment is comprised of two structural layers bonded to and on either side of a light, flexible core. The structural layers made of a strong, resilient material comprised of a natural fiber-embedded-matrix, this class of materials including grasses such as bamboo, hemp and kanaf. The composite skateboard deck of the present invention is strong, light, durable, resilient, environmentally friendly, and derived from a more renewable resource with no loss of pop or memory.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for dispensing individual sheets of stack of adhesive coated sheets is disclosed. The apparatus is comprised of a carriage for receiving the stack of adhesive coated sheets; reciprocating means for intermittently driving the carriage from a first rest position to a second rest position and vice versa; and guiding means for directing the distal edge of a sheet from a guide input to a guide output as the carriage is driven by the reciprocating means from the first rest position to the second rest position or vice versa. The invention is useful for dispensing said sheets without requiring that each sheet be pulled through or drawn out the guide output under the force of the releasable adhesive bond between adjacent sheets. Using the invention, one may cause a sheet to be dispensed to a position where it is accessible to the user only when the sheet is actually needed.

Abstract: A fluid flow regulator of a smoke evacuation system for use with laparoscopic and endoscopic surgery is disclosed. The fluid flow regulator is comprised of a flow regulating means and a conduit connecting means. The flow regulating means in one embodiment includes a diaphragm and one or more orifices of predetermined diameter to provide a significant obstruction to the flow of fluid through the evacuation system. When operatively coupled to the pressurized surgical site, the fluid flow regulator makes possible the continuous evacuation of surgical smoke while simultaneously maintaining the pneumoperitoneum in a distended position for the duration of the laparoscopic procedure. Also disclosed is a method of using the fluid flow regulator to continually evacuate surgical smoke in the course of laparoscopic and endoscopic surgical procedures without deflating the pneumoperitoneum, which hereto for has been used by prior art systems to evacuate surgical smoke.